Middle School Students Create Interactive Cardboard Arcade as Part of Device-Free Library Programming

Each day, Middle School students make their way over to the Library during their lunch period, where a pilot program is in the works for student programming that is completely device-free. 

 

The screen-free lunch has been a hit so far, and it reached another level of popularity recently after several Middle School students accepted the challenge to create a fun and interactive arcade entirely out of cardboard and craft supplies. 

 

The students worked on the games for several weeks, and the Cardboard Arcade was finally ready for customers last week. More than 70 Middle School students came to the Library to try the Cardboard Arcade, playing a hook game, a pinball game, two basketball games, wack-a-mole and a ball toss. Middle School Library teacher Darla Magana created scorecards and a prize store, and students were able to enjoy some mid-day downtime playing games and winning prizes. 

 

The success of the Cardboard Arcade led to the Mrs. Magana and the Middle School students to open up the experience again for a head-to-head tournament. 

 

The Library has piloted device-free programming for Middle School students this year during their lunch period. Students can unwind with puzzles and games, and other activities like Cricut design projects and maker cart creation projects are also available for students. Up to 40 Middle School students come to the Library each day for screen-free activities.